Priest didn't get to face accuser

Saturday

Nov 9, 2013 at 12:01 AMNov 10, 2013 at 11:49 AM

Since Barbara Meyer "gave her two cents' worth" ("In the pursuit of justice, age irrelevant," letter, Oct. 25), we felt we must also, given we have enjoyed Father Raymond Lavelle's friendship for many years.

Since Barbara Meyer “gave her two cents' worth” (“In the pursuit of justice, age irrelevant,” letter, Oct. 25), we felt we must also, given we have enjoyed Father Raymond Lavelle's friendship for many years.

We agree that a victim should be heard; however, we don't know that there is a victim, only an accuser.

Where is this accuser? Why is he or she allowed to remain anonymous while the accused is identified, thereby effectively besmirching his good reputation? Shouldn't the accused be able to face his accuser?

There is another point we would like to explore. The diocese has judged that this claim is "credible.” As we understand it, the only basis for determining credibility was that both the accused and accuser were in the parish at the same time. Does this mean that is all our bishop requires to determine credibility?

If so, we think Pope Francis should be apprised of how our diocese determines which cases can proceed.

Further, why hasn't our diocese cleared up the confusion and questions expressed in the many letters to the editor concerning this case? Why is the accuser's identity hidden?

Certainly, 42 years after the alleged abuse, he or she would be in at least his or her 50s, which should qualify for adulthood and nullify the need to protect a minor. (Incidentally, Meyer seemed to indicate that a little boy was abused, while we are not aware that the sex of the alleged victim was divulged.)

We believe our community deserves answers to these concerns. Common decency and justice demand it.